Philbrook Farm Dark Bread
A hearty, flavorful dark bread with rich molasses and brown sugar notes, perfect for hearty breakfasts or as an accompaniment to savory dishes, suitable for all bread lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Measure the graham flour into a cup, then turn into a large bowl.
- Sift the flour, baking soda, salt, and brown sugar into the bowl over the graham flour.
- Mix together the molasses and buttermilk or sour milk, then add to the flour mixture.
- Mix well and turn the batter into a well-greased 9 x 5-inch loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour.
- Turn out the bread and let it cool.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Ensure the buttermilk is at room temperature for better mixing. If you prefer a sweeter bread, increase the brown sugar by a couple of tablespoons. This recipe is versatile; you can add nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the bread and serve it warm with butter or cream cheese for breakfast. It pairs beautifully with a warm bowl of soup or alongside a salad for lunch. For a unique treat, try it with a drizzle of honey or alongside Cherry Center Balls for a delightful dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm slices in a toaster or oven until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Philbrook Farm Dark Bread contains roughly 263 calories, with 8g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value), iron (13% of the Daily Value), and calcium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1960mg per serving (85% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can substitute regular milk for buttermilk by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk and letting it sit for about 5 minutes to sour. This will mimic the acidity of buttermilk and help achieve a similar texture in the bread.
What adjustments should I make if using a different type of flour?
If using a gluten-free flour blend, ensure it has a binding agent like xanthan gum to replace the gluten. You may need to adjust the liquid content slightly, as different flours absorb moisture differently. Start with the original amount and add more as needed.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when it has risen nicely and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. You should also notice a lovely golden-brown crust. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).